You can use chip-enabled cards at millions of places that accept VISA® debit/credit cards, at home, online and abroad.

The magnetic stripes that card users have known for decades are in the process of receiving a major security makeover. In an effort to prevent card fraud U.S. financial institutions, including Heritage Valley, are beginning the process of switching to new cards that use an embedded microchip as a data firewall. Chip technology has been standard in Europe for years and if you haven’t already, you’ll be hearing a lot more about it and begin seeing them soon! In the meantime, here’s some basic information about the new Chip Card technology.

Whether you check out using chip technology or swipe your card, you can pay with confidence worldwide. Until your new chip card arrives simply swipe your card like you do today. No matter how you pay, you’re protected against unauthorized use with VISA®’s Zero Liability Policy.*

How does chip technology protect my information?

Chip-enabled cards have been the standard in Europe and many other countries around the world and are becoming a new standard in the United States. The chip technology provides enhanced fraud protection, as the card is now nearly impossible to duplicate. It also offers global acceptance, making it easier on those who frequently travel internationally to continue using their regular cards for payments.

What is a chip-enabled VISA® card?

Each chip-enables card contains an embedded microchip. This chip holds information that is encrypted, making it extremely difficult for the card to be copied or counterfeited. Every time you use the card at a chip-enabled terminal, the embedded chip generates a unique transaction code. This prevents stolen data from being used fraudulently.

Where can I use a chip-enabled VISA® card?

You can use chip-enabled cards at millions of places that accept VISA®debit/credit cards, at home, online and abroad.

Can I still swipe my chip-enabled VISA® card to pay?

Yes. If a merchant is not yet chip-enabled, simply continue to swipe your card, select CREDIT, and sign for your purchase as usual. If you would like cash back with a debit card transaction, use your PIN instead.

Can I use my chip-enabled VISA® debit card at the ATM?

Yes. You can still use your debit card to get cash, check your balance and more. Simply insert the chip end of your card with the chip facing up. If the ATM is not chip enabled, continue to follow the instructions on the ATM machine.

When can I expect to receive my new chip-enabled card(s)?

Heritage Valley’s VISA® credit card will begin featuring chip technology beginning April 29, 2016. The new chip-enabled cards with be issued to all new cardholders and will be issued to current cardholders when you card expires. If you are traveling outside of the country or wish to have a chip card sooner, please contact Member Service. Debit cards are scheduled to begin featuring chip technology beginning late 2016.

Will I have to order my chip-enabled VISA® card?

No, all VISA® credit and debit cards will be issued to you automatically.